Conservation Initiatives

Captive Breeding and Reintroduction
The Toronto Zoo participates in many captive breeding and re-introduction programs, which involve breeding rare and endangered species in human-controlled settings and, if possible, releasing these animals back into their natural habitats.

Going Green
The Toronto Zoo is a not-for-profit organization committed to energy efficient operations and environmental protection. The Zoo has motivated of volunteers, seasonal and full time staff that understand the importance of living sustainably in balance with nature. Click here to read about our green initiatives.

Invasive Species
Invasive species are plants and animals that spread rapidly, often displacing native flora and fauna and causing harm to surrounding environments. Invasive species are often alien or exotic, having been introduced through human activity to areas outside of their natural range.

Horticulture
The Toronto Zoo is about much more than just animals! You may be surprised to know that the Zoo's plant collection is even more extensive than its animal collection.

Habitat and Species Specific Research
Habitat loss is one of the greatest threats to biodiversity on Earth today. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), habitat loss is the primary threat to 85% of all threatened or endangered species around the world. In Canada, 90% of Carolinian forests, which hold over 40% of the endangered and threatened species in Canada, have been converted to farmland or towns.

Conservation-Education Programs
With an estimated 1.2 million visitors every year, the public is one of the Toronto Zoo's greatest resources for conservation efforts.

Fish conservation with Tim McCaskie in Madagascar
In October, 2010 Tim McCaskie from the Toronto Zoo travelled to Madagascar to survey endangered fish species, confirm species in the region, as well as survey local villagers and assess habitat. The following is an article, video and images Tim has put together of his experience.

Motus Wildlife Tracking System
The Toronto Zoo has installed a Motus Wildlife Tracking System, which is an antenna used as part of a research program managed by Bird Studies Canada, tracking the long distance movements of small animals.